Chicken Fajitas My Way

Chicken Fajitas My Way is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 4. 300 calories per serving.

Prep: 25 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 55 min

Cost: $57.90 total, $14.47 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.25 lb Chicken Breast (sliced into thin strips)
  • 1 whole Lemon (juiced (half for chicken, half for salsa))
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder
  • 0.25 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (divided between marinate and seasoning)
  • 5 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (divided among marinating, cooking, and salsa)
  • 1 each Green Bell Pepper (sliced into strips)
  • 1 each Red Bell Pepper (sliced into strips)
  • 1 each White Onion (thinly sliced (red or yellow onion works better))
  • 1 each Jalapeño (seeded and finely diced)
  • 1 tbsp Garlic (minced (about 3 cloves))
  • 1 cup Tomatoes (finely diced, fresh)
  • 0.5 cup Jarred Roasted Red Bell Peppers (drained and diced)
  • 1 small can Green Chilies (canned) (drained, about 4 oz)
  • 1 tbsp Red Onion (finely diced for salsa)
  • 0.5 each Chipotle Pepper (minced fine, adds smoky heat)
  • 0.25 cup Water (helps vegetables steam)
  • 8 each Flour Tortillas (medium size, warmed before serving)
  • 2 tbsp Sour Cream (optional topping)
  • 0.5 each Avocado (sliced)
  • 1 each Lime (cut into wedges for squeezing)
  • 1 cup Leafy Greens (shredded lettuce or mixed greens, optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken

    Place sliced chicken breast in a mixing bowl. Add the juice of half a lemon, 1 tsp chili powder, 0.25 tsp ground cumin, 0.25 tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil. Toss to coat evenly and let sit.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Prepare the Fresh Salsa

    In a small bowl combine 1 cup finely diced fresh tomatoes, 0.5 cup diced jarred roasted red peppers, 1 small can drained green chilies, 1 tbsp finely diced red onion, a pinch of salt and pepper, 1 tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil, the juice of the remaining half lemon, and 0.5 chipotle pepper minced fine. Mix well and refrigerate until needed.

    Time: PT10M

  3. Slice the Vegetables

    Thinly slice 1 green bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper, and 1 white onion. Seed and finely dice the jalapeño. Mince 1 tbsp garlic.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Cook the Chicken

    Heat the large cast‑iron skillet over medium‑high heat. Add 2‑3 tbsp oil, then add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5‑8 minutes until the chicken is opaque and cooked through.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: medium‑high heat

  5. Set Chicken Aside

    Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside while you cook the vegetables.

    Time: PT1M

  6. Sauté the Vegetables

    Add 1 tbsp oil to the same skillet. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and jalapeño. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, then pour in 0.25 cup water. Stir and cook for about 4‑5 minutes until vegetables are tender‑crisp.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium‑high heat

  7. Add Garlic and Finish

    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1‑2 minutes until fragrant. Return the chicken to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits, and toss everything together for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: medium‑high heat

  8. Warm the Tortillas

    While the fajita mixture is finishing, place the tortillas in the skillet for 30 seconds per side, or until lightly browned and pliable.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium heat

  9. Assemble and Serve

    Place a warm tortilla on a plate, spoon a generous amount of the chicken‑vegetable mixture, top with a spoonful of the chilled salsa, shredded lettuce, a drizzle of sour cream, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime. Repeat for remaining tortillas.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
300
Protein
25 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
10 g
Fiber
4 g

Dietary info: Gluten‑free if using corn tortillas, Dairy‑free if sour cream omitted, Nut‑free

Allergens: Dairy (sour cream), Gluten (flour tortillas)

Last updated: April 15, 2026

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Chicken Fajitas My Way

A quick, versatile Tex‑Mex style chicken fajita recipe from Tess's Kitchen. Thinly sliced chicken breast is marinated in lemon, chili powder, cumin and olive oil, then cooked with colorful bell peppers, onions and jalapeño. A fresh homemade salsa with tomatoes, roasted red peppers, green chilies and chipotle adds a smoky kick. Serve with warmed tortillas, sour cream, avocado and lime for a satisfying dinner.

EasyMexicanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
14m
Prep
26m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
50m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$57.90
Total cost
$14.47
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Marinating the chicken briefly to infuse flavor.
  • Cooking chicken just until done to keep it juicy.
  • Using a splash of water to steam the vegetables without burning.
  • Scraping the pan drippings when returning chicken for maximum flavor.
  • Warming tortillas just enough to stay pliable but not crispy.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter – use a splatter guard or keep face away.
  • Use a sharp knife carefully when slicing vegetables.
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of chicken fajitas in Tex‑Mex cuisine?

A

Fajitas originated in the ranch lands of South Texas where Mexican cowboys ("vaqueros") would grill cheap cuts of beef over open flames. Over time, chicken and other proteins became popular, and the dish evolved into the colorful, quick‑cook staple we enjoy today, symbolizing the blend of Mexican flavors with American convenience.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of fajitas exist within Mexican and Tex‑Mex cuisine?

A

Traditional Mexican fajitas often use skirt or flank steak, serve with simple lime wedges, and are wrapped in corn tortillas. Tex‑Mex versions frequently use flour tortillas, add sautéed bell peppers and onions, and incorporate toppings like sour cream, cheese, and guacamole. Some regions add grilled shrimp or pork (alambre).

cultural
Q

How are chicken fajitas traditionally served in Texas?

A

In Texas, chicken fajitas are typically served on warm flour tortillas with sautéed bell peppers and onions, accompanied by fresh salsa, lime wedges, sour cream, shredded cheese, and sometimes guacamole. They are often presented on a sizzling platter to keep everything hot.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations are chicken fajitas commonly associated with in Tex‑Mex culture?

A

Fajitas are a popular choice for casual gatherings, weekend family meals, backyard barbecues, and game‑day parties. Their quick assembly and customizable toppings make them ideal for feeding a crowd during celebrations like Cinco de Mayo or Fourth of July cookouts.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for chicken fajitas versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, sliced bell peppers, onions, and a simple salsa of tomatoes and chilies. Substitutes can include turkey, shrimp, or tofu for the protein, and corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten‑free version.

cultural
Q

What other Tex‑Mex dishes pair well with chicken fajitas?

A

Chicken fajitas pair nicely with Mexican rice, refried or black beans, guacamole, corn on the cob, and a side of fresh pico de gallo. A light margarita or a chilled agua fresca complements the meal beautifully.

cultural
Q

How has the chicken fajita recipe evolved over time in Texas?

A

Originally a beef‑centric dish, the fajita adapted to include chicken as a leaner, quicker‑cooking protein. Modern recipes often add chipotle peppers, jalapeños, and pre‑made salsa for convenience, while still honoring the core concept of grilled meat with sautéed vegetables.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making chicken fajitas at home?

A

Common mistakes include over‑cooking the chicken, overcrowding the pan which steams rather than sears the meat, using too much water which makes vegetables soggy, and not seasoning the vegetables adequately. Follow the high‑heat, quick‑cook method for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this chicken fajita recipe use a splash of water when cooking the vegetables?

A

The water creates steam that helps the bell peppers and onions soften quickly without burning, preserving their bright color and crisp‑tender texture while keeping the pan hot enough for a quick sear.

technical
Q

Can I make the chicken fajita mixture ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a skillet before serving. Keep the salsa separate to maintain its fresh texture.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Tess's Kitchen specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Tess's Kitchen focuses on approachable, everyday home‑cooking recipes with a focus on quick meals, versatile protein options, and flavorful sauces that can be adapted to a variety of cuisines.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Tess's Kitchen's approach to Tex‑Mex cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Tess's Kitchen emphasizes flexibility—showing how the same fajita base can be made with chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu—and provides practical tips for busy home cooks, whereas many other channels stick to a single protein or more elaborate plating.

channel

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